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The Premiership Rugby Cup has replaced the Anglo-Welsh Cup and most clubs are likely to treat it as a development competition. There are incentives for doing well, however, with total prize money of more than £500,000 and, of course, a trophy at the end of it.

Bath Rugby players in a huddle after the defeat to Gloucester (Image: Ian Johnson, Taking Pictures (Sport)) Rob Baxter, Chiefs' director of rugby, said: “We play both Bath Rugby and Bristol Bears in the pool stages, which creates two brilliant derbies for us – great for both sets of supporters too."

Bath's Premiership Rugby Cup fixtures

Saturday, Oct 27 - Harlequins (H), 3pm

Saturday, Nov 3 - Exeter Chiefs (A), 3pm

Friday, Nov 9 - Newcastle Falcons (A), 7.45pm

February 1/2/3 - Gloucester Rugby (H) TBC

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Mark McCafferty, Premiership Rugby chief executive, said: "The cup has been a highly successful competition in recent years in helping develop the best new Premiership and England players, in front of big crowds and TV audiences.

"The pathway for young players is now clear linking the U18s league, the Premiership Rugby Shield and now the Premiership Rugby Cup into one strong route towards Gallagher Premiership Rugby, European competitions and Test matches."